H 1420 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to violent crimes

This bill modifies Massachusetts laws regarding violent crimes committed by individuals under the age of eighteen, specifically addressing murder charges. It allows prosecutors to file murder cases against juveniles in adult court through an indictment rather than only in juvenile court. Additionally, the legislation sets specific minimum prison terms for minors convicted of first-degree murder, requiring a minimum of 35 years before parole eligibility, and adjusts sentencing guidelines for other violent offenses. These changes directly affect the legal process and potential sentences for minors accused of serious violent crimes.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Jun 5, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors